Character & Leadership

CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP

Helping youth become responsible, caring citizens and acquire the skills they need to participate in a democratic society is the main focus of these programs. They also develop leadership skills and provide opportunities for planning, decision-making, and contributing to others. Our Keystone Club is a leadership development experience for youth ages 14 to 18 that encourages engagement both in and out of the Club environment. For example, they serve meals to Tacoma's homeless and collect jeans for homeless teens. Another program, Youth of the Year, is a national competition, the highest honor for youth within the Boys & Girls Clubs nationwide. Youth are judged on leadership qualities and service exhibited through:

• Home & Family

• Spiritual Values

• Community

• School

• Service to the Club

• Life Goals

• Obstacles Overcome

• Essays and Poise

• Public Speaking.

Program Highlight

Youth of the Year

Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America's premier youth leadership and recognition program, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of Club members. Candidates embody the values of leadership, service, academic excellence and healthy lifestyles. They exemplify the critical impact the Boys & Girls Clubs have on the lives of young people. Judges score each candidate based on their essays, interviews, public speaking and overall application.